With the introduction of computers in the workplace, the need for a faster and more accurate way to read and process information became more apparent. Bar code scanners were developed to help automate the process of cataloging and tracking inventory, as well as to help speed up transactions at checkout. To help you select the best bar code scanner for your needs, we’ve rounded up the top products on the market.
Read on to learn more about our favorite bar code scanners.
Our Editor’s Best Bar Code Scanners Reviews
- Plug and play, This laser handheld barcode scanner has simple installation with any USB port and Ideal for businesses, shops and warehouse operations. Its function is unbeatable and easy to use, design is stylish
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux; works with Word, Excel, Novell, and all common software
- Scanning Speed: 200 scans per second. Scanning angle: Inclination angle 55°, Elevation angle 65°. Operational Light Source:Visible Laser 650-670nm.
- Decode Capability: Code11, Code39, Code93, Code32, Code128, Coda Bar, UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, ISBN/ISSN, JAN.EAN/UPC Add-on2/5 MSI/Plessey, Telepen and China Postal Code,Interleaved 2 of 5, Industrial 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5, etc ; 300 configurable options for prefix, suffix and termination strings, support turn on/off the beep.
- Color: Black. Dimensions: 3.6 x 2.6 x 6.1 inches. Type of Cable: 2M or 6ft straight cable. Shock: 1.5m drop on concrete surface. Regulatory Approvals: FCC CE.
- 【Battery Level Indicator and 2000mAh Capacity】Larger battery enables longer continuous usage and twice the stand-by time of others. With the unique battery indicator light showing the remaining battery level, no more Low Battery Anxiety.
- 【Ergonomic Design】 The curved handle is extended and thickened, tailor-made for North America customers. Specially designed smooth and flat trigger for better grip. 【Package Includes】Barcode Scanner x1, USB Cable x1, Dongle x1, User Manual x1.
- 【Anti-Shock Silicone】 The orange anti-shock silicone protective cover can avoid scratches and friction while falling from the height of 6.56 feet. IP54 technology protects the wireless barcode scanner from dust.
- 【2.4 GHz Wireless + USB 2.0 Wired Connection】 Plug and play with the USB receiver or the USB cable, no driver installation needed. Easy and quick to set up. Wireless transmission distance reaches up to 328 ft. in barrier free environment.
- 【Digital and Printed 1D 2D QR Bar Code Symbologies】1D: Codabar, Code 11, Code93, MSI, Code 128, UCC/EAN-128, Code 39, EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, ISBN, Industrial 25, Interleaved 25, Standard25, Matrix 2D: QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, Aztec, Hanxin, Micro PDF417. (Note: Not compatible with Square.)
- ✅Symcode Wireless Barcode Scanner Two connection modes: 2.4GHz wireless and USB cable connection; With Mini USB Receiver and USB Cable, Plug and Play, USB Receiver Automatic Pairing, no need to install any software or App. Simple installation and ideal use in a wide range of situations and workplaces.
- ✅Barcode Scanner Wireless Long Distance 2.4GHz Wireless Transmission Technology.Delivers up to 400m transmission in open air/100m transmission indoor. No More Data Cable Needed, easily connected with your laptop, PC etc.
- ✅With built-in rechargeable battery, Integrated 2000mAh Li-Ion battery,standby of more than half a year if fully charged; continuous scanning barcode for more than one week; It can be charged by any USB 2.0 port.
- ✅Network mode available:One to one ,More to one.Multiple scanners can transmit data to the one wireless receiver - ideal in a warehouse where several people are scanning at once.
- ✅Two working mode: Instant upload mode / storage mode. Internal offline storage supports up to 100,000 barcodes in offline storage mode. Scan and store barcode when far away from the receiver,and then update the data to your device when you come back entering the wireless transmission range.
- The imager Barcode Scanner is equiped with advanced CMOS sensor, which can easily capture 1D/ 2D（QR/ PDF417/ Data Matrix,etc） bar codes from paper and screen, such as computer monitor, smartphone or tablet, effectively compensate for the problem that laser scanner can not identify screen code.
- Physical power switch: save energy in case of error operation.
- The Pocket bar code scanner comes with 3-in-1 Connection Design：Compatible with Bluetooth Function; 2.4G Wireless connection receiver; Wired connection. Easily connected with your laptop, PC, mobile phone, tablet, iphone, ipad, POS. Work with Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac OS, Windows Mobile, Android OS, iOS
- Manual Scan & Auto-sensing Scan & Continuous Scan. 1200mAh battery ensures 20 hours of continuous handsfree scanning, no pressing the button for efficiency.
- Two upload mode :Instant upload mode / Storage mode. Internal offline storage supports up to 100,000 barcodes in offline storage mode. Scan and store barcode when far away from the receiver, and then batch upload the data to your device when you need it.
- ✅Barcode Scanner Wireless Charging, Enjoy Freedom,Simply place the scanner on the stand and wireless charging stand will do the rest.Symcode Bluetooth 2D Barcode Scanner with Auto-Sensing Stand,Putting on stand to switch to auto-sense scanning mode directly,do not need to scan any setup code.
- ✅Larger battery enables longer continuous usage and twice the stand-by time. With the unique battery indicator light showing the remaining battery level, no more Low Battery Anxiety.
- ✅Connect via 2.4G Wireless / Bluetooth: Symcode barcode scanner works with 2.4G wireless and Bluetooth transmission. The cradle has a built in 2.4G receiver that makes the scanner completely plug-n-play, Connect the scanner to your device via bluetooth, Support HID / SPP / BLE mode, Easily connected with your laptop, PC, smartphones, tablet, iphone, ipad, POS.
- ✅Multiple Configuration Options,More customizations are available such as automatic sensing, hiding barcode character, add prefix or suffix and volume adjustment, etc. With quick barcode scanning speed, 32Bit CPU super decoding ability that the speed up to 300/sec,Symcode scanner can easily scan 1D, 2D (QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, Aztec, Hanxin, etc）barcodes on labels, paper, and mobile phone or computer displays.Even if labels are on shrinkwrap, partly damaged, dirty or poorly printed.
- ✅Superior Scanning Performance: Symcode barcode scanner adopts the High Resolution Scan Engine. Can recognize following codes: UPC-A UPC-E EAN-8 EAN-13 with complementary Code128 Code39 Code 39Full ASCII Codabar Industrial/Interleaved 2 of 5 Code93 MSI Code11 ISBN ISSN China Post etc. (optional)GS1 Databar Code32; 2D: QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417, Aztec code, Maxicode, etc.
- Continuous Usage All Day: The EY-H2 USB barcode scanner is designed to always be ready for the next scan, which significantly reduces downtime and repair costs; it shortens checkout lines, improves customer service, and boosts business productivity
- Plug and Play: Eyoyo wired barcode scanner is connected via a USB cable, with no need to install any driver or software; It offers effortless connection and is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux; Seamlessly works with Quickbook, Word, Excel, Novell, and all common software
- Supports Multiple 1D/2D Barcodes: Eyoyo QR code scanner scan with most 1D 2D barcodes with ease; 1D Barcodes: EAN, UPC, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, UCC/EAN 128, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, ITF-6, ITF-14, ISBN, ISSN, MSI-Plessey, GS1 Databar, Code 11, Industrial 25, Matrix 2 of 5, etc. 2D Barcodes: QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, and so on
- Supports Screen Scanning: The Eyoyo 2D scanner is capable of reading barcodes from smartphone screens, such as mobile coupons, digital wallets, and digital loyalty cards; Before scanning, simply turn your screen brightness to the maximum
- Sturdy Anti-Shock and Durable Design: The Eyoyo 2D barcode scanner features an ergonomic design made of high-quality ABS, enabling it to withstand repeated drops from 5 ft/1.5 m high onto the concrete ground; The durable plastic material ensures a long service life
- USB 2D Barcode Scanner,Continuous Usage All Day,The new design emits a red laser before successful scanning and a blue circular aperture after successful scanning, especially suitable for use in noisy environments.
- Handheld type 2D barcode scanner is with USB port cable, LED.150 scans per second.Operational Light Source:Visible Laser 650-670nm.Support to put prefixes or suffixes before or after scanned data.
- Plug and play, no need to install any software or app, easy to use. Flicker scanning, continuous scanning,New 32 bit digit laser decoding technolgy with faster scanning speed, give you a much better user experience.
- 1D 2D QR Code Scanner: Symcode 2D barcode scanner with the superior decoding capability to work with most 1D 2D barcodes. 1D Barcodes: EAN, UPC, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, UCC/EAN 128, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, ITF-6, ITF-14, ISBN, ISSN, MSI-Plessey, GS1 Databar, Code 11, Industrial 25, Matrix 2 of 5, etc. 2D Barcodes: QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, 180 configurable options for prefix, suffix and termination strings.
- Compatible with Android, Windows, Mac, and Linux; works with Quickbook, Word, Excel, Novell, and all common software.Ergonomic design with high-quality ABS making it can support withstand repeated drops from 5ft/1.5m high to the concrete ground, durable to use.
- ➤CCD Image Scanning Technology - NetumScan 1D barcode reader is equiped with advanced CCD sensor, which can quick capture 1D codes from paper and screen, including CODE128, UPC/EAN Add on 2 or 5, that can read even deformed barcodes, i.e. smudged, damaged, fuzzy, reflective barcodes, etc. Reading faster and more accurate than laser scanner.
- ➤Sturdy Anti-shock and Durable Design - Ergonomic design with high-quality ABS making it can support withstand repeated drops from 2m high to the concrete ground, durable to use. Durable plastic material guarantees long service life.
- ➤Three scanning mode - Key trigger mode + Auto-induction mode + Continuous Mode. There is no need to pull the trigger in auto-sensing mode and continuous scanning. Sometimes the self-sensing scanning function is in the inactive stage, please contact us and be at your service at any time.
- ➤Supported 1D Bar Code - 1D Decode Capability: UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, ISSN, ISBN, Code 128, GS1-128, Code39, Code93,Code32, Code11, UCC/EAN128, Interleaved 2 of 5, Industrial 2 of 5, Codabar(NW-7), MSI, Plessey, RSS, China Post, etc.
- ➤Widely Use Range - This NetumScan Handheld USB barcode scanner can be used in supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse, library, bookstore, drugstore, retail shop for file management, inventory tracking and POS(point of sale), etc.
- ➽【Omnidirectional Automatic Barcode scanner】NetumScan Barcode Scanner can easily capture bar codes 1D, 2D/QR on labels, paper, and mobile phone or computer displays,Sensitive and accurately and you can easily scan damaged barcode, distortion barcode, colorful barcode and reflective barcode, etc special barcode. Perfect for retail and other high-volume scanning applications.
- ➽【Automatic Smart Sensing Scanning】Specially equipped induction trigger, the desktop barcode scanner support auto-sensing scanning, barcode recognition more intelligent. When you not use the barcode scanner for a while, it will be into a sleeping mode. When handsfree barcode scanner in sleeping mode, it will automatically be activated once the item moving, and read the barcode under the window to upload to your device.
- ➽【Non-slip Base and Anti-shock Design】Our Handsfree Omnidirectional Barcode Scanner can be directly placed on the desk, the anti-slip base makes it more stable, Built-in anti-vibration system can avoid damage while falling from the height of 4.92 feet. IP54 technology protects the wireless barcode scanner from dust.
- ➽【Improve Your Efficiency】Compared with handheld barcode scanner, our handsfree barcode scanner is more free of your hands, no need to pick up the scanner when scanning, whether it is cashier scanning goods, or customer scanning digital barcode from smart phone. It can improve work efficiency and save time. Also it is so easy to use, no need extra training necessary for new staff.
- ➽【Plug and Play, Easy to Use】No need to install any software or app, Our desktop barcode scanner is Plug and play. Easily connected with your laptop, PC, POS by USB Cable. Ideal work for Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux.
- Plug and Play: Handheld 1D Barcode Scanner is easy to install and uses a wired USB port, making it ideal for document management and inventory tracking in supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouses, pharmacies, retail stores, and libraries.
- Support for scanning screens: Bar code scanners gun using advanced CCD sensors, can be completed from the screen and paper to identify a variety of commonly used 1D codes, support the identification of a variety of distorted, wrinkled, dirty or reflective bar code.
- Compatibility: USB barcode scanner 300 scans/s, the farthest recognition distance of 20cm, support for Windows, Mac and Linux; applicable to Word, Excel, Novell and all commonly used software.
- Supports almost all 1D Barcodes: EAN, UPC, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, UCC/EAN 128, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, ITF-6, ITF-14, ISBN, ISSN, MSI-Plessey, GS1 Databar, GS1 Composite Code, Code 11, Industrial 25, Standard 25, Plessey, Matrix 2 of 5
- Ergonomic design: the use of high-quality ABS + PC material, feel comfortable, can withstand a height of 1.5M fall to the impact of the cement ground.
Best Bar Code Scanners Buying Guide
Before choosing the best bar code scanners you should consider following options:
1. Decide on the type of barcode scanner: There are three types of barcode scanners available: handheld, desktop and tablet.
If you’re looking for a portable model to use in the office or on the move, you have a choice between handheld and wearable barcode scanners.
The main difference is that handheld barcode scanners have a single long handle, while wearable scanners are designed to clip onto your pocket or scan the barcode while it’s in your line of sight.
Desktop barcode scanners are self-explanatory, and are designed to sit on a desk.
2. Decide on the type of scanner technology: You also need to consider the different types of scanner technology available and which one best suits your requirements.
Laser scanners are the most accurate, but they may be exposed to high levels of dust and moisture.
They also have a shorter lifespan than their counterparts, and are more expensive.
Stick scanners are the least expensive, but they are not as accurate.
The third option is a 2D scanner, which is suitable for reading barcodes printed on labels or packaging.
3. Decide on the resolution and sampling rate: Resolution refers to the level of detail the scanner can capture.
The higher the resolution, the greater detail the image will have, so a barcode can be easily read.
If the resolution is too low, the image will be blurry and the barcode scanner may have difficulty reading the code.
The sampling rate refers to how quickly the scanner can capture an image. The faster the sampling rate, the faster the scanner can capture and read the code.
4. Decide on connectivity options: You also need to consider the connectivity options the scanner offers.
This will help you determine how it can be integrated into your existing workflow.
Some barcode scanners offer Wi-Fi connectivity, while others may have Bluetooth connectivity, offering the flexibility to be used in many different environments.
5. Decide on the total cost of ownership: The cost of a barcode scanner should not only include the price of the device itself but also the total cost of ownership.
This includes all the ongoing maintenance, service and support costs.
Some barcode scanners come with comprehensive warranties, while others only offer limited warranties.
Some companies offer warranties on the hardware and others on the software.
It’s also important to consider any included or optional services, such as annual or biannual maintenance contracts.
You should also consider the cost of consumables, such as batteries, sleeves and labels.
What else you should know about bar code scanners
1. What is a bar code scanner?
A bar code scanner is a device that can read and interpret bar codes.
2. How do bar code scanners work?
The bar code scanner is a device that can read and interpret barcodes. It consists of a light source, a lens and a light sensor that converts the barcode image into electrical signals. These signals are then decoded by the scanner and sent to a computer for further processing.
3. What are the benefits of using a bar code scanner?
Some benefits of using a bar code scanner include increased accuracy, efficiency, and productivity. Bar code scanners can help reduce errors, save time, and improve your bottom line.
4. What are the different types of bar code scanners?
The most common types of bar code scanners are handheld scanners, fixed-position scanners, and in-counter scanners.
5. How do I choose the right bar code scanner for my business?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best bar code scanner for your business will depend on a number of factors, including the type of business you have, the products you sell, and the volume of sales you make. However, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help you choose the right bar code scanner for your business. First, you will need to decide whether you need a handheld or desktop bar code scanner. If you have a small business with low volume sales, a handheld scanner may be sufficient. However, if you have a larger business with high volume sales, you will likely need a desktop scanner. Second, you will need to decide on the features you need. Some bar code scanners come with built-in memory, while others require an external memory card. You will also want to consider the scanning speed and accuracy of the scanner. Finally, you will need to decide on a budget. Bar code scanners can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best bar code scanners. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best bar code scanners will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.